Words / B1

dis-ON-ist/dɪsˈɒnɪst/

Dishonest means not truthful, ready to lie or cheat: a dishonest advert; dishonest conduct. Honest is the opposite (already in the dictionary). Fraudulent is stronger and more legal. Do not call a mistake dishonest unless there was intent. ASA: ads banned as dishonest.

Meaning

Not truthful; ready to lie or cheat.

Examples

• “The advert was banned as dishonest about the interest-free period.”
• “Dishonest conduct in an exam can mean disqualification.”

Good to know

a dishonest claim / advert / person. Opposite: honest. Legal/stronger: fraudulent. Intent matters. Exams: dishonest conduct.

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